People from all walks of life and various nations converged on the Doha Corniche yesterday to witness the Qatar National Day festivities. PICTURES: Jayan Orma

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By Ayman Adly /Staff Reporter

Qatar residents turned out in huge numbers to take part in the National Day celebrations yesterday, in an awesome display of their affection and loyalty to the country and its leadership, with many holding up the National Flag alongside the image of His Highness the Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad al-Thani.In particular, many people flocked to the Doha Corniche, the venue of the National Day parade hours ahead of the scheduled time to witness the different formations of Qatari troops and forces and military equipment, with some displayed for the first time.At the conclusion of the parade, spectators were very happy when the Amir walked to them and greeted many of them by shaking hands. The atmosphere was full of enthusiasm and joy as people waved the Qatar flag and the image of the Amir, while voicing their love using various phrases of support and appreciation.On the social media, the video of the National Day parade was shared by a good number of people through different groups with many comments praising the country for its stability, security, prosperity and the good standard of living enjoyed by all residents. Ahead of the occasion, Qatar National Day items were in high demand at all the outlets across the country. These were also on display on many vehicles across the country’s roads. A large number of such vehicles passed through Doha Corniche with young people of different nationalities expressing their happiness and joy. Some of them stressed that they consider Qatar as their second home, as they have enjoyed good living conditions and excellent opportunities of growth offered in the country for all, regardless of their backgrounds. Wassim, an expatriate from Lebanon, said: “I’ve been living in Qatar for many years and I cannot find words good enough to express gratitude for the country and what I have enjoyed here throughout the years. On this occasion, I see that the country has given many people from different parts of the world great opportunities to improve their lives.”Many others from various walks and places, voiced similar feelings towards the country, stressing that throughout the last few years in particular, Qatar has made greater achievements in different fields despite the unjust blockade imposed on the country since June 5, 2017 by Saudi Arabia, UAE, Bahrain and Egypt. They said that the National Day celebrations this year are true to its motto that “Qatar will remain free”, which also sends out a strong message that the country is prospering and going forward at a faster rate under the wise leadership of the Amir.